What's Happening?
Susan De Marco, who spent 11 years as a stay-at-home mom, has successfully reentered the workforce and risen to the position of CEO at Brand K Partners, an accounting firm for nonprofit organizations in New
Jersey. Despite holding a CPA and MBA, De Marco faced significant challenges due to the gap in her resume when she initially sought employment. Her experience as a mother was ultimately seen as an asset by Amy Karson, the founder of Brand K Partners, who hired her. De Marco's journey highlights the difficulties faced by stay-at-home parents and empty nesters in overcoming resume gaps when returning to work.
Why It's Important?
De Marco's story underscores the broader issue of resume gaps as a barrier for stay-at-home parents and older professionals seeking to reenter the workforce. This situation is exacerbated by AI-driven technology that may filter out resumes with large gaps, making it difficult for experienced individuals to find employment. Her success demonstrates the value of soft skills gained through parenting, such as empathy and multitasking, which are applicable in managerial roles. The narrative also emphasizes the importance of persistence and self-belief for those looking to return to work after extended periods away.
What's Next?
Efforts are underway to address the challenges faced by individuals with resume gaps. Scott Siff, a business strategist, is developing a website called Pivoters to assist older professionals in finding new job opportunities. This initiative aims to reduce barriers such as resume creation and navigation of job listing platforms. Additionally, De Marco and Karson advise stay-at-home parents to leverage their soft skills and remain open to opportunities that may initially seem below their skill level, as these can lead to proving one's capabilities and achieving career growth.
Beyond the Headlines
The story of Susan De Marco highlights the cultural shift towards recognizing the value of non-traditional career paths and experiences. It challenges the conventional view of career progression and emphasizes the importance of flexibility and adaptability in the modern workforce. This development may encourage more organizations to consider diverse experiences and skills when hiring, potentially leading to more inclusive employment practices.
